New Zealand milk collection up 4.5% as peak nears

Milk collection across New Zealand to September 30 reached 322 million kgMS, 4.5% higher than the same period last year according to latest figures from Fonterra.

It says volumes are approaching peak collection for the season, which is forecast for mid-October 2014.

North Island collection in September reached 128 million kgMS, four million kgMS ahead of September last season. Fonterra says despite some unsettled weather, favourable pasture growth in the North Island has helped maintain early season volumes above last year’s levels.

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South Island collection in September reached 67 million kgMS, four million kgMS ahead of September last season. The South Island experienced favourable soil moisture conditions for the month, however temperatures were cooler than average in most dairy producing regions.

Fonterra milk collection across Australia for the three months to September 30 reached 29 million kgMS, three million kgMS ahead of the same period last season.

It says the milder winter, good cow condition and pasture growth have contributed to strong production early in the season across most regions. This resulted in milk collection in September reaching 12 million kgMS, one million kgMS ahead of September last season.